FPL Energy, a Juno Beach, Fla.-based provider of clean energy from natural gas, wind, solar, hydroelectric and nuclear power plants, has released a survey that illustrates California residents' support of wind power. It shows that 83% of the 500 participants surveyed via telephone are in favor of the expansion of wind energy production in the state, and more than 96% of respondents believe wind power should be a part of the state's future mix of renewable energy sources.

"California has traditionally been a leader in promoting clean energy alternatives, and it's clear that Californians strongly favor wind power as a part of the state's long-standing commitment to climate change through the efforts to diversify the fuel supply and reduce power plant emissions," says Bryan Fennell, FPL Energy's vice president of business management. "Although wind cannot solve all of California's energy needs, we believe it can play a greater role in diversifying the state's current fuel mix and helping the environment. The survey results confirm that Californians consider wind to be an important renewable energy resource."

The survey measured public awareness and perceptions about wind energy in five California cities, including Los Angeles, San Diego, Fresno, Sacramento and San Francisco. According to FPL, it revealed that 80% of California residents believe expanding renewable energy sources will have a positive impact on California in the next 10 years, and 90% support the state's goal to have renewable energy sources provide 20% of the state's power needs by 2010. The report also shows the respondents' reasoning for supporting wind: 89% said because wind energy will never run out, and 82% said because it will reduce the need for imported fuel.